About Founders Gala

The Founders Gala is the University of San Diego's signature fundraising event.

Funds raised from the Founders Gala provided scholarships to USD’s best and brightest students. The scholarships give USD a distinct advantage when competing for sought-after scholars who, through their work and through their service, are leading change in the world.

In 2017, with the date having fallen on Veterans Day, the university paid special tribute to our men and women in military service. Proceeds from the 2017 Founders Gala established a new, endowed scholarship fund in the amount of $500,000 dedicated to student veterans.

The Founders Gala drew more than 600 of the region’s most prominent corporate, philanthropic and community leaders, along with university trustees, administrators, alumni and friends. The black-tie event included an exclusive VIP lounge, silent and live auctions, an exquisite dining experience, and an After Party that won’t soon be forgotten.

University of San Diego

As a nationally ranked Catholic university, the University of San Diego is committed to advancing academic excellence, expanding liberal arts and professional knowledge, creating a diverse and inclusive community and preparing leaders dedicated to ethical conduct and compassionate service, to create lasting social change in our global society.

About 70 percent of USD students rely on some form of financial aid. Even more are in need. Proceeds from the Founders Gala support the Founders Endowed Scholarship Fund, providing financial aid to USD’s most deserving undergraduate, graduate and law students.

USD Facts

The University of San Diego is ranked among the top-100 universities in the nation and is listed as one of America’s Catholic Colleges of Distinction.

#1: Most Beautiful Urban Campus

#7: In the nation for undergraduate study abroad participation

#11: Among Catholic colleges and universities in America

#12: Of the best business schools for networking

#12: In the nation among engineering schools offering bachelor’s and master’s degrees